By KLTV Newsdesk –

Return of original glazing company marks symbolic moment in landmark regeneration project

A significant milestone has been reached in the restoration of Dewsbury Arcade, as the company responsible for installing its original glazed roof more than a century ago returns to help restore the historic structure.

The glazed roof, one of the arcade’s most distinctive and celebrated features, is a focal point of the ongoing renovation.

Known for flooding the interior with natural light and creating a warm, bright atmosphere, the roof has long been central to the character of the Grade II listed building.

Original Firm Returns After More Than a Century

Restoration work on the roof has been carried out by Standard Patent Glazing, a Dewsbury-based company that installed the very same glazed roof when the arcade first opened in 1899. Their involvement has been widely viewed as a symbolic link between the building’s past and its future.

Councillor Graham Turner, Cabinet Member for Finance and Regeneration, said: “The Dewsbury Arcade is an iconic part of the town’s heritage, and its roof is one of its most striking features.

“We’re thrilled to have worked with the very same local firm that originally installed the roof over a century ago.

“It’s a powerful nod to the Dewsbury Board of Guardians, who first commissioned the arcade and we’re proud to be a part of restoring it to its former glory.

“This regeneration is about more than preserving history – it’s about shaping the future.

“The arcade will play a vital role in the Dewsbury Blueprint, supporting independent businesses, attracting visitors, and helping to boost the town’s economy.”

Careful Conservation of Historic Features

The restoration extends well beyond the roof.

The arcade contains more than 131 windows, all of which must be conserved in accordance with the listed building planning regulations.

Where full replacements are unavoidable, windows will be installed on a “like for like” basis to maintain the original appearance and character of the building.

Next Phase of Works Underway

The project continues to gather pace, with the next stage focusing on rendering the walls beneath the glazed roof.

Work is also progressing on rebuilding the lift shaft wall, which will eventually provide access to the upper floors.

In addition, stone plinths for the shop fronts are due to arrive on site for installation.

Breathing New Life into a Long-Empty Landmark

Built in 1899, the Grade II listed arcade had stood empty since 2016.

It was later purchased with a commitment to invest in its restoration and bring it back into use.

Once complete, it will transfer to the Arcade Group for leasing and management as part of the wider Dewsbury Blueprint regeneration strategy.

Funding for the project has come from several sources, including the West Yorkshire Combined Authority’s Getting Building Fund, the Government’s Towns Fund and the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

The main construction works are being delivered by William Birch and Sons, a Yorkshire-based company specialising in the restoration of heritage buildings.